Cover Letters
Cover Letters
(OP)
I did a search and couldn't find this topic discussed in detail, a bit surprising. I am planning to relocate from Southern California to Central Florida this March or April. I am an only child, and my father is a widower. I am moving back home to provide care and companionship for him, especially after a severe health scare last year. Should I include this information in my cover letters, or should I save this information for the (fingers crossed) interviews?
"Art without engineering is dreaming; Engineering without art is calculating."
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RE: Cover Letters
Simply stating that you are moving to be near family ought to be enough.
RE: Cover Letters
Save the details for interviews.
RE: Cover Letters
RE: Cover Letters
Thanks for the the advice, I sort of figured that by adding it I would come across as a potential headache down the road for a prospective employer.
"Art without engineering is dreaming; Engineering without art is calculating."
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RE: Cover Letters
RE: Cover Letters
Chris
SolidWorks/PDMWorks 08 3.1
AutoCAD 08; CATIA V5
ctopher's home (updated Aug 5, 2008)
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RE: Cover Letters
RE: Cover Letters
I have never been to Florida, but I agree about LA.
Chris
SolidWorks/PDMWorks 08 3.1
AutoCAD 08; CATIA V5
ctopher's home (updated Aug 5, 2008)
ctopher's blog
SolidWorks Legion
RE: Cover Letters
However, I would disagree with skearse and say put something about the location change (a variation on Mints idea is good, without the e) in your cover letter. They will see from your address that you are from miles away and that might otherwise cause them to discount you without looking more closely.
If they ask at the interview you could maybe say more but I'd still maybe phrase it more about 'being close to family' rather than 'look after a sick family member', the latter might get sympathy but if they're a less charitable soul they may think like Tick says.
Either way, hope it works out for you. Hope it's not a rat leaving a sinking ship 'cause I figure I'm here in CA for the forseeable.
KENAT,
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RE: Cover Letters
Honestly though, this is not the best timing for making a transition like this. It's a bit scary. Reimbursement for relocation if not something I require. I've made this cross-country road trip a few times now, this time I plan on enjoying myself during the drive back.
"Art without engineering is dreaming; Engineering without art is calculating."
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RE: Cover Letters
KENAT,
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RE: Cover Letters
If you had been really bad we'd have sent you to Oz like the good old days but it's more expensive getting there than the US
----------------------------------
If we learn from our mistakes I'm getting a great education!
RE: Cover Letters
Depending on how you feel and your style, the "I have been planning" could be changed to "I was hoping to," "I am moving to," "I am interested in," etc...
It just depends on your style and how motivated you think the company wants you to appear. Some companies may treat you differently if they think you are looking for anything in a specific area versus appearing to be looking at a large area and selecting that company.
If they are interested in knowing more specifically about it, they will ask. Depending on the situation, they may be more/less interested. I think it is best to be broad and just touch on items in the cover letter. Let the person doing the hiring decide which items they want to follow up on.
-- MechEng2005
RE: Cover Letters
Just put you want to be closer to family. Do not discuss your fathers health as an issue.
It's personal and nobody's business, it's your business.
Good luck!
RE: Cover Letters
Personal "issues" are flags for rejection, no matter how unfair that might seem. Don't throw anything out there except that you are relocating to Florida. You don't have to give a reason. Fundamentally it's none of their business and if it doesn't affect your performance, who cares.
Welcome to Florida. It's a great state. Other than traffic in Orlando, Central Florida is probably the best area in the state.
RE: Cover Letters
KENAT,
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RE: Cover Letters
RE: Cover Letters
Use your dad's address on your resumes and get a cell phone with a central FL area code. When they call tell them that you are in CA until April for work.
RE: Cover Letters
Good post. I do not think being completely honest with a future employer is correct.
You can't tell them it's none of their business, even though it is not, this is a good way around it.
They should only be interested in your skills, attitude, availibility, etc.
Good luck!
RE: Cover Letters
RE: Cover Letters
It is not like that is verified. Who cares if you live on Oak St. or 21st Ave.? FL or CA?
RE: Cover Letters
Never had the pleasure of Ca. however I recall some primo times in Jax. Beach and Gainesville.
The lightening (elec storms) in Fla. are epic. So are the kini's.
Enjoy.
I would not include "personal reasons" that sounds sketchy to me.
Omit the reason for moving, save it for the interview. And by the way, your reason should be an admirable quality to your perspective employer. It would to me.
Good health to your dad.
RE: Cover Letters
RE: Cover Letters
"Art without engineering is dreaming; Engineering without art is calculating."
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RE: Cover Letters
In my last job, my interest in the area had a positive effect. During the interview an exhibit of various samples was a benefit.
RE: Cover Letters
Good thread. MadMango, i wish both you and your father all the best, you are doing a good thing which will be greatly appreciated.
RE: Cover Letters
RE: Cover Letters
Now that's a good reason.
RE: Cover Letters
rmw
RE: Cover Letters
"Art without engineering is dreaming; Engineering without art is calculating."
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